Six Chinese nationals have been arrested for immigration violations under Presidential Directive No. 24-65, which was signed on Dec. 18, 2024. The group, comprising five men and one woman, was apprehended Friday at the Blue Seaview Hotel in Meyuns, authorities said.

The individuals are accused of violating immigration laws and remain in custody pending the payment of fines and deportation. Under Palau’s stricter border security measures, they will be listed as “undesirable aliens,” barring them from re-entering the country.

The directive, signed by President Surangel Whipps Jr., requires that all work permits, visa applications, visa extensions, and foreign investment applications be cleared by the National Security Coordinator before approval by the Division of Immigration, Division of Employment Services, or the Foreign Investment Board.

National Security Coordinator Jennifer Anson reported an increase in referrals from the Division of Employment and the Division of Immigration since the directive came into effect.

The arrests are expected to add to Palau’s growing list of undesirable aliens, which reached 441 individuals as of Dec. 20, 2024. The list includes individuals barred from entering the country due to violations or other security concerns.

Under Palau law, specifically 13 PNC Section 1005, the president has the authority to deny entry or revoke permits if it is deemed “in the best interest of the Republic.”  (By: L.N. Reklai)